Arithmetic – Homeschool

Course Description

Basic Math is an upper-level arithmetic course designed to give students a strong grasp of fundamental operations including addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division with whole numbers, fractions, decimals, and percents. The course also introduces other key math concepts typically taught at this level and gradually progresses into introductory algebra and geometry topics.

The goal of this course is to build math confidence, fluency, and problem-solving skills through clear instruction and hands-on practice. (See the Table of Contents below for a full breakdown of included topics.)


How the Course Works

(Note: The structure for this course differs slightly from others.)

  1. The student watches a video lesson and begins the corresponding textbook assignment on the same day, working until the scheduled math time ends.

  2. The next day, the student continues the assignment until it is completed or until math time ends. A third day may be needed to finish the work—and that’s okay.

  3. After completing the assignment, the student moves on to the next section, following the same routine.

  4. After several sections—or at the end of a chapter—the student prepares for a test by reviewing the problems in the textbook’s Review Exercises section.

  5. When ready, the student takes the test found in the textbook. Parents are encouraged to proctor the test. If you have questions about grading, contact us—Dana is happy to walk through the test with you.


When Help Is Needed

If students or parents encounter difficulties, support is available through multiple methods:

  1. Re-watch the video lesson.
  2. Review similar examples in the textbook.
  3. Consult the solutions manual for step-by-step guidance.
  4. Submit a question through the Cool Math Guy website. Replies typically arrive within 24 hours.

Sample Videos from this Course


Table of Contents

  • 1.1  Introduction to Whole Numbers
  • 1.2  Addition of Whole Numbers
  • 1.3  Subtraction of Whole Numbers
  • 1.4  Multiplication of Whole Numbers
  • 1.5  Division of Whole Numbers
  • 1.6  Exponential Notation and the Order of Operations Agreement
  • 1.7  Prime Numbers and Factoring
  • 2.1  The least Common Multiple and Greatest Common Factor
  • 2.2  Introduction to Fractions
  • 2.3  Writing Equivalent Fractions
  • 2.4  Addition of Fractions and Mixed Numbers
  • 2.5  Subtraction of Fractions and Mixed Numbers
  • 2.6  Multiplication of Fractions and Mixed Numbers
  • 2.7  Division of Fractions and Mixed Numbers
  • 2.8  Order, Exponents, and the Order of Operations Agreement
  • 3.1  Introduction to Decimals
  • 3.2  Addition of Decimals
  • 3.3  Subtraction of Decimals
  • 3.4  Multiplication of Decimals
  • 3.5  Division of Decimals
  • 3.6  Comparing and Converting Fractions and Decimals
  • 4.1  Ratio
  • 4.2  Rates
  • 4.3  Proportions
  • 5.1  Introduction to Percents
  • 5.2  Percent Equations: Part I
  • 5.3  Percent Equations: Part II
  • 5.4  Percent Equations: Part III
  • 5.5  Percent Problems: Proportion Method
  • 6.1  Applications to Purchasing
  • 6.2  Percent Increase and Percent Decrease
  • 6.3  Interest
  • 6.4  Real Estate Expenses
  • 6.5  Car Expenses
  • 6.6  Wages
  • 6.7  Bank Statements
  • 7.1  Pictographs and Circle Graphs
  • 7.2  Bar Graphs and Broken-Line Graphs
  • 7.3  Histograms and Frequency Polygons
  • 7.4  Statistical Measures
  • 7.5  Introduction to Probability
  • 8.1  Length
  • 8.2  Weight
  • 8.3  Capacity
  • 8.4  Time
  • 8.5  Energy and Power
  • 9.1  Length
  • 9.2  Mass
  • 9.3  Capacity
  • 9.4  Energy
  • 9.5  Conversion Between the U.S. Customary and the Metric Systems of Measurement
  • 10.1  Introduction to Integers
  • 10.2  Addition and Subtraction of Integers
  • 10.3  Multiplication and Division of Integers
  • 10.4  Operations with Rational Numbers
  • 10.5  Scientific Notation and the Order of Operations Agreement
  • 11.1  Variable Expressions
  • 11.2  Introduction to Equations
  • 11.3  General Equations: Part I
  • 11.4  General Equations: Part II
  • 11.5  Translating Verbal Expressions into Mathematical Expressions
  • 11.6  Translating Sentences into Equations and Solving
  • 12.1  Angles, Lines, and Geometric Figures
  • 12.2  Plane Geometric Figures
  • 12.3  Area
  • 12.4  Volume
  • 12.5  The Pythagorean Theorem
  • 12.6  Similar and Congruent Triangles

Supporting Parents

We understand that questions can come up, especially in the beginning. Personal support is available via text, email, or phone. We’re here to help both parents and students every step of the way.


Course Materials

Textbook Recommendations

Two textbooks correlate directly with this course’s video instruction. While the word “College” appears in the titles, these textbooks are designed for junior college remedial math courses and are perfectly appropriate for upper-elementary and middle school students (roughly grade 6 and up).

Note: Textbooks include answers to odd-numbered problems. The solutions manuals provide step-by-step methods, which are helpful but not essential.

Option 1
Basic College Mathematics, 9th Edition by Aufmann and Lockwood

Option 2
Basic College Mathematics, 10th Edition by Aufmann and Lockwood


Practice Tests, Tests, and Answer Keys

All assignments and testing materials are available to subscribers through a password-protected link.


Subscribe and Get Started

Annual Flat Rate: $150 for One Year of Access

Start your Algebra 1 journey today with easy-to-follow instruction, responsive support, and a proven method trusted by homeschool families and educators nationwide.

$150.00 / year